Richard L. Harris, Sr., 96, of New Salem died Saturday, December 29th in Beaumont Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. His wife of 54 years, Winona M. (Francis) Harris died in 2004. He leaves two sons, Richard L. Harris, Jr. of Boston and Thomas L. Harris of New Salem; a daughter, Traci A. Goldsberry and her husband, John of Sandston, Virginia; two granddaughters, Whitney Smith and Jessica Goldsberry and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Harold L. Harris.

He was born in Worcester the son of the late, Harold and Marion E. (Klash) Harris and graduated from the former High School of Commerce. Richard was a veteran of the United States Army serving during World War II where is was stationed in Japan and the Philippines. He worked at St. Vincent Hospital for over 40 years, retiring in 1984. Until moving to New Salem, he was a member of All Saints Episcopal Church in Worcester.

His funeral is Friday, January 11th with a service at 11:00 AM in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours are Friday, January 11th from 9:00 until the start of the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to All Saint’s Church, 10 Irving Street, Worcester, MA 01609